Lexapro is an oral drug which is used to treat depression and anxiety. It belongs to the category of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs).It helps to maintain the correct level of chemical messenger in the brain. It is recommended to take this medicine in a day with or without food. The duration of treatment varies from person to person. It takes usually a period of 6 months for complete results.

Drug details-

In Lexapro, Escitalopram is the active drug, which belongs to the category of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs).It works by inhibiting the reuptake of serotonin. It is the chemical messenger responsible for controlling mood. The main cause of depression is an imbalance in the level of a chemical messenger in the brain.

Why to take this drug?

Lexapro is used for the treatment of depression and generalized anxiety disorder (GAD).It has been approved by the FDA in adults.

Contraindication-

Intake of this drug is contraindicated in certain condition:

In case of having any sensitivity to Escitalopram or any of the ingredients in this drug.

Not recommended in pregnancy or breast feeding, as it may harm the baby.

Not recommended for a child or adolescent.

Drug interaction-

The intake of certain drug should be avoided while taking this drug. Some of the drug may interact with Lexapro and alter its effects.

Anti-coagulant drugs such as Warfarin and heparin, as in combination with this drug can proliferate the threats of serious bleeding.

Avoid the drug used to treat migraine such as Sumatriptan

Avoid intake of strong pain killer such as Tramadol

Avoid intake of lithium, used to treat mood swings and some other types of depression,

Avoid intake of TCA’s such as Amitriptyline and Amoxapine it also raises the body’s serotonin levels, thus increasing this drug’s side effects.

Storage-

Keep this drug in a cool dry place, away from direct sunlight.

Keep out of the reach of children or pets.

Dosage-

The individual should take the whole tablets with a full glass of water as a single dose either in the morning or in the evening. Do not chew them.

The standard dose for this medicine is 10 mg per day. This may be increased to 20 mg per day according to symptoms. The suggested maximum dose in older patients is 10 mg per day. It is recommended that patients with liver illness receive an early dose of 5 mg daily for the first two weeks. Duration of treatment varies from person to person. It takes 6 months for the complete effect.

What to do in case of missed dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as come to know about it. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for next scheduled dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

What to do in case of overdose?

Symptoms of an overdose include Drop in blood pressure, lightheadedness, nausea, vomiting, agitation, tremor, seizures and coma. Avoid intake of overdose of this drug.